Hey Reader! Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. For years, reading felt like a chore. I kept expecting the next personal improvement or productivity book to “fix” me. Lost in my drive for self-improvement, was that sense of adventure I had as a kid, when I devoured everything from Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew mysteries to books about JFK’s assassination (yes, I started digging into that with a BFF when we were barely 12). And James Herriott’s All Creatures Great and Small series captivated me—especially since summers with my extended family meant feeding cattle and riding horses. Reading was fun back then! Do you remember the last time you truly lost yourself in a book? That feeling of being transported to another world, where time seems to stand still and the only thing that matters is turning the next page? If it’s been a while since you’ve experienced that reading magic, don’t worry. The books I’m about to share with you have reignited my passion for reading, and I believe they can do the same for you. Note: Book links are Amazon Associates links, which means I may earn a small commission if you decide to purchase through them (at no extra cost to you). 1. Just One More Chapter by Maneetpaul SinghWhy You Might Enjoy It: This book is perfect for rekindling your love of reading. Maneetpaul Singh’s approach is all about finding books that genuinely excite you and make time fly by. Get to know Maneetpaul here. He's such a kind human being. I've learned so much from him about reading, and ebooks. 2. Our Woman in Moscow by Beatriz WilliamsWhy You Might Enjoy It: This gripping historical fiction, set at the onset of WWII, offers a unique perspective through the eyes of a female protagonist. It’s not just a historical account but a thrilling tale of espionage, loyalty, and love. Insight: I’ve put immense pressure on myself to transform through productivity books, but I’ve rediscovered that great stories like this allow us to be subtly and beautifully changed. The characters and their journeys help us understand the world’s complexities, offering insights that no self-improvement book ever could. 3. The Thursday Murder Club by Richard OsmanWhy You Might Enjoy It: Sometimes, the best way to rekindle your love for reading is with something purely fun. The Thursday Murder Club is a delightful and witty mystery about four retirees solving cold cases from their retirement village. It’s a light, enjoyable read that reminds us of the simple joy of a good story. But there's also a sweet, sweet message in the characters and their stories. Insight: Through my aging loved ones, I have a glimpse of how unimaginably hard to let go of a life that time leaves behind. But finding a place of acceptance becomes an opportunity to enjoy life as it is. 4. Working by Robert CaroWhy You Might Enjoy It:Working offers a glimpse into the life and process of Robert Caro, one of the greatest biographers of our time. This book isn’t just for writers or readers who enjoy biographies—it’s for anyone who has ever grappled with the tension between self-acceptance and personal growth. Years ago, after missing deadline after deadline in pursuit of the answer to “just one more question,” Caro berated himself for what he then perceived as a “lack of discipline.” Insight: His reflection on his painstaking process reminds us that sometimes, growth isn’t about relentless change but about embracing who we are. Pursue Curiosity!I hope one of these books sparks your curiosity. Or maybe you have a 'just for fun' book in mind. Forget about the stack of "ought to read" books. They'll wait. Pick up the book you’ve been eager to get lost in. You might just find yourself. Happy reading, —Tracy P.S. If you ever have any questions, want to share your thoughts on a book, or just say hi, hit reply to this email. I’d love to hear what you’re reading for fun these days! |
No “must-read” lists, no productivity hacks — just books that make you think, laugh, or dream. Fiction, non-fiction, all genres welcome. Because reading for fun is its own kind of self-care.
Unhustled Archives Hello Reader, Sometimes, you’re just not feeling a book. It’s not the book’s fault (well, sometimes it is), but more often, it’s you. Your brain isn’t cooperating. Life is doing its thing. And the idea of forcing another chapter feels like eating steamed broccoli when you could be having a chocolate chip cookie. That’s why I have a pause stack—it feels less permanent than my “Did Not Finish” folder. This year, I’ve gotten very good at recognizing my “good book, bad timing”...
Unhustled Archives Hello Reader, Sometimes a book is so bad, it’s almost… entertaining. Whether it’s absurd plotlines, cringe-worthy dialogue, or over-the-top drama, these “hate reads” somehow kept me turning the pages—if only for the snark factor. This week, I’m diving into the worst books I read in 2024, complete with the highlights (or lowlights) that had me rolling my eyes and laughing out loud. Featured Book: Never by Ken Follett This book promised a gripping political thriller. What I...
Hey Reader, What's already on your 2025 reading list? Are you heavy in a particular genre or author? A few of the 30ish titles in my 2025 reading folder My 2025 book folder is a mix of biographies, fiction, and an ambitious literary classic or two. Some are about personal growth, but most of what I read next year will be just for fun—because I've learned that a lot of growth happens when I stop trying so hard. Especially when it comes to reading. Studies show that reading for pleasure reduces...